Originally Posted by powertoold
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So here I am, stuck in the VC dilemma: if I drive, I feel bad, but if I bike in the bike lanes, I don't feel safe.
There is no dilemma. Use common sense and the experience that you gain over time. VC, in general, is the best approach.
Don't the purists ruin it for you, however. Don't do things that make you uncomfortable just because some VC bully said it was "the right thing" to do.
As for bike lanes, it is fully possible to use and enjoy many bike lanes safely. Yes, you are right that intersections + BL are problematic, but it doesn't take a rocket scientist to solve that problem when it is in front of you. Be careful and use your wits.